The Two Big Rules
- Cover shoulders and knees at any temple, mosque or gurudwara
- Remove shoes before entering religious sites and people's homes
For Women
Daily Wear in Cities
Loose cotton trousers or palazzos with a long tunic top (kurta), or a maxi dress, work everywhere. Jeans and a t-shirt that covers your shoulders is fine in Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Goa. Avoid spaghetti straps, very short shorts, or low-cut tops outside resort settings.
For Temples
Long sleeves or a scarf to drape, and trousers or a long skirt below the knee. Carry a light scarf (dupatta) — it covers shoulders, head and works as a sun shield.
For Beaches
Bikini is fine at 5-star resorts and Goa beaches. Cover up the moment you leave the sand.
For Men
Daily Wear
Light cotton trousers (chinos, linens) or jeans with a t-shirt or polo. Shorts are acceptable in tourist cities, beaches and resorts but avoid in temples and rural areas.
For Temples
Long trousers and a t-shirt that covers shoulders. Some Kerala temples (e.g. Sabarimala) require a dhoti — your guide will advise.
For Dinner
Smart casual everywhere. Heritage palace hotels (Rambagh, Lake Palace) appreciate a collared shirt at dinner.
Weather-Specific Packing
October–March (Cool Season)
- Light cottons for daytime
- One warm layer (sweater, fleece) for evenings
- December–January in Delhi/Rajasthan: morning temperatures can drop to 5°C — pack a proper jacket
April–June (Hot Season)
- Loose, light, breathable cotton
- Long sleeves protect from sun better than short
- Hat, sunglasses, high-factor sunscreen essential
Hill Stations and Himalayas
- Always pack a fleece even in summer
- Ladakh in summer: 25°C day, 5°C night
- Kashmir winter: full winter wear including thermals
Footwear
Comfortable walking shoes for forts and palaces (you'll walk a lot). Slip-on sandals make temple visits painless — no laces to undo every time you remove shoes.
The Smart Move
Buy a couple of kurtas (long Indian tunics) in your first city — they cost €5–15, are perfectly heat-adapted, look great in photos, and are a respectful choice everywhere.